What This Document Is
This is a comprehensive course syllabus for Cinema and the City (UPP 205) at the University of Illinois at Chicago. It outlines the structure, expectations, and assessment components for a semester-long exploration of how cities are represented – and constructed – through film. The syllabus details a course designed to critically examine the relationship between urban spaces and cinematic portrayals, focusing on themes of belonging, exclusion, and the complexities of modern urban life.
Why This Document Matters
This syllabus is essential for any student enrolled in or considering enrolling in UPP 205. It provides a clear roadmap for the course, allowing students to understand the workload, grading criteria, and key dates. Prospective students can use this to gauge the course’s focus and determine if it aligns with their academic interests. Current students will find it invaluable for staying organized and meeting assignment deadlines throughout the semester.
Topics Covered
* The theoretical framework for understanding the “right to the city” and its implications.
* Visual representations of urban conflict and social dynamics in film.
* The production of urban “others” and the creation of cosmopolitan dystopias.
* Spatial segregation, borderlines, and the division of urban spaces.
* Methods for critically analyzing urban landscapes and cinematic techniques.
* Case studies of cities around the globe, including New York, Istanbul, and Rio de Janeiro.
* The intersection of film studies with disciplines like urban planning and anthropology.
What This Document Provides
* A detailed course schedule outlining weekly topics and film screenings.
* A breakdown of all assignments, including viewing responses, presentations, a research paper, and a unique framing exercise focused on Chicago.
* Clear guidelines for assignment formatting and submission.
* Information regarding instructor and teaching assistant office hours and contact details.
* A comprehensive grading rubric outlining the weight of each assignment component.
* A description of the course’s overall structure, including lecture, discussion, and screening formats.
